Drugs & The Internet
LAUV
The Hollow Pursuit of Validation: Analyzing 'Drugs & The Internet' by LAUV
LAUV's song 'Drugs & The Internet' delves into the modern-day struggle of seeking validation through superficial means. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels unfulfilled and turns to drugs and the internet as a way to cope with their feelings of inadequacy. The opening lines describe a breakup and the protagonist's subsequent attempt to drown their sorrows in a night out with friends. This sets the stage for the central theme of the song: the search for meaning and self-worth in a digital age.
The chorus is particularly poignant, as it highlights the protagonist's realization that they have traded meaningful relationships for fleeting moments of pleasure and online validation. The repeated question, 'Am I a winner yet?' underscores the emptiness of this pursuit. The mention of the protagonist's mother, who is also struggling with her own vices, adds a layer of generational commentary, suggesting that the search for fulfillment through unhealthy means is not a new phenomenon but has perhaps been exacerbated by the advent of the internet.
In the latter part of the song, LAUV reflects on the consequences of his actions, expressing a desire to be more than he currently is. The line 'I sold my soul, and all I got, likes from strangers, love on the internet' encapsulates the hollow nature of online validation. The song ends on a contemplative note, with the protagonist still grappling with their choices and the realization that true fulfillment cannot be found in drugs or the internet. LAUV's introspective lyrics and emotive delivery make 'Drugs & The Internet' a powerful commentary on the pitfalls of seeking validation in the wrong places.